Apedale Amble

Appropriately, our first ride of the New Year was not only Kev's first go at leading but also attracted nine new faces. When Liz and I arrived it was becoming difficult to find a parking space, there were cars with bikes on the back scattered all over. As we were sorting our gear, more bikes appeared from boots of cars, we thought at this rate we may have to split into two groups! To be honest it was quite a poor turnout from the regulars with Margaret, Len and Nigel making a total of six but it was nice to see more members from other sections coming along with Paul Figg and a couple of other climbers, as well as Ann Jones and her two sons who are normally seen paddling rather than peddling. Tom, Mark and Kev's Brother, who were trying the S.O.C. for the first time, made a total of fifteen. If Alastair's record of sixteen doesn't get beaten shortly, I'll show my backsi..., sorry, I'll be very surprised. I must apologise but I was concentrating so hard on trying to remember the route we took, that I've forgotten some people's names.

We set off over Reeth Bridge to Grinton. Here we climbed the steep road up towards the Youth Hostel turning right onto the Redmire road. After a short rest and re-group we turned onto the bridleway to start the long and steep climb to the top of Harker Hill. As we climbed the wind grew stronger at which point Margaret suddenly remembered she'd left the oven on and so was forced to return home! Twenty seven short rests and re-groups later, we finally made it to the top. From here the going became easier till we reached the footbridge at Browna Gill. The climb on the far side was very icy, this and Len's recurring problem of releasing the wrong foot from it's pedal gave Len the dubious honour of being the first to fall off. Later on in the ride, Len had trouble with his pedals again resulting in another tumble but I think I was the only witness so I'll save him any embarrassment and not mention this second incident.

As we made our way to Apedale Head, at first sight we appeared to be riding along a hard gravel track until all of a sudden your wheels would sink through the gravel to end up deep in peat and mud. Anyway, we were soon enjoying the descent down Apedale to Dent's Houses. Here we were hoping to scrounge a cup of tea but unfortunately Mr. Dent wasn't at home. We now faced the steep climb up Greets Hill but were rewarded with one of my favourite descents, back down to the Grinton/Redmire road. After safely negotiating all the off-road bits, Kev's Brother unfortunately came to grief on the final road section back to Reeth. Luckily he was wearing shorts (yes, in January) so he ended up with a gashed knee but no damage to clothing, well you know how expensive cycling gear is these days.

Well, despite the atrocious weather we've had over the last few months, it's good that our ride leaders are managing to find routes that are still enjoyable, Kev's being no exception. Thanks to Kev for volunteering to lead this ride, particularly as he's only been a member for a couple of months. Also, thanks to everyone for turning up, particularly the first timers who we hope to see on future rides.

	Search this site powered by FreeFind
	Swaledale Outdoor Club

Apedale Amble

Dave Neesam